Welfare is a complex and diverse topic, and while welfare offices will not have the answers to solve all issues, they need to know where to go to get the correct information.
The tri-service Unit Welfare Officers’ (UWO) course covers all aspects of welfare to ensure that participants are equipped to support soldiers and their families. The course is based at the Emergency Planning College in Easingwold, Yorkshire and run by Lt Col (retd) Mick Tobin.
Our Devolved Nations Manager Emma Perrin attends the UWO course monthly to brief the attendees on AFF’s recent work, but her main message is how AFF can support them as they move into, or continue, in their role in welfare.
Nick, a welfare officer from the course, said: “Emma told us not to moan to each other, moan to AFF, as they need the evidence to be able to make changes. It’s great to have a trusted organisation that we can turn to, and we know they are fighting for improvements at all levels.”
Who can attend the welfare course?
The course is open to any officer, warrant officer, senior NCO, regular or reserve, or civil servant who provides welfare support for serving personnel or families.
How long is the course?
The course is split into two parts – the first lasts five days and is for those just starting in their welfare role. The second takes place four to six months later and lasts two days, with an option of adding a further two days of armed forces mental health first aid training.
Is there a refresher course?
Yes, all welfare staff are welcome to attend the refresher element of the course, this has proved vital for those who have held a welfare role for more than three years. Graham, a welfare sergeant, said: “I recently attended the refresher course; it shocked me how much has changed since I first attended the course.”
Who presents on the course?
AFF is just one of the charities which is represented on the welfare course. During the first part of the week the attendees focus on internal military policies, learn who will be supporting them and who they can raise issues to. This part includes presentations from the Army Welfare Service (AWS) who the welfare team will raise more serious cases to such as domestic abuse and child and adult safeguarding cases.
They will also hear from Personnel and Family Support. This team includes the HIVE, the Departments of Community Mental Health (DCMH), and the Military Housing Liaison Officer (MHLO) who will be their main point of contact for any service accommodation issues.
In the second half of the week, external organisations will present, such as Veterans UK, Army Benevolent Fund and a specialist from the Department for Work and Pensions who gives an insight into the Child Maintenance Service.
Can welfare staff deal with all issues?
The welfare team is certainly a good starting point, they can triage your issue and decide who is best placed to help you. Welfare staff won’t be able to solve everyone’s problems, however, they will know who needs to be brought in to begin the process.
Lt Col Tobin said: “The welfare officer will be equipped with a mobile phone that’s rarely switched off; they must be available to take calls from those in need of support at any time.”
Main photo: Emma Perrin and Lt Col (retd) Mick Tobin